SpiRobs is the future of soft robotics with bioinspired design and exceptional functionality. X/@worksofgeniuss
University of Science and Technology of China has made a fascinating development in robotics, with the octopus-inspired robotic arm led by Nikolaos Freris. It combines the dexterity of a human hand with the natural grace of animal appendages.
Part of a new class of soft robots, SpiRobs, this spiral robotic arm draws inspiration from the logarithmic spiral shapes of elephant trunks and octopus tentacles. Crafted through the advanced use of reverse engineering techniques, SpiRobs exhibit a range of complex, gripping maneuvers that include reeling, extending, winding, and grasping, achieving a remarkable 95 percent success rate in task execution.
The robot’s design incorporates a sophisticated system of two or three cables that actuate the arm, enabling it to adjust its grip with a 15-degree conical angle. This feature allows the robot to handle objects widely in diameter and support loads up to 260 times its weight. Such capabilities were highlighted in a demonstration video where the robotic arm performed multiple tasks with astonishing precision and delicacy.
From grasping fragile items like eggs and strawberries to catching speeding tennis balls and even precisely punching ping-pong balls, SpiRobs tentacle arm has proven its versatility and precision.
Further enhancing its functionality, the robot has demonstrated its ability to maneuver around obstacles and operate in confined spaces. In one test, objects such as rocks were strategically placed to block its path. Yet, the flexible arm navigated around them effortlessly, still managing to secure the objects it was programmed to retrieve.
Its ability to curl and twist 360 degrees adds to its impression of biological mimicry, moving with a fluidity that almost blurs its mechanical nature.
The technological innovation goes beyond mere movement and manipulation. The researchers have paired the SpiRobs arm with drones, expanding its utility to aerial applications. In a compelling field test, a drone-equipped version of the robotic arm successfully lifted and transported a water bucket, showcasing potential applications in the growing low-altitude transportation sector.
This integration hints at future uses where multiple robotic arms could work together to lift heavier and bulkier items, transforming tasks across various industries.
The fabrication of SpiRobs has been achieved through 3D printing, utilizing cost-effective materials such as polyurethane, resin, and paper. This choice of materials not only underscores the commercial viability of the robot but also allows for scalability, with prototypes ranging from a few centimeters to several meters in size.
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According to Jam Press, the SpiRobs robotic arm can delicately grab an ant with a tip just 0.14mm in diameter without causing any harm. This level of sensitivity indicates potential applications that span from intricate laboratory work to robust industrial tasks. With minimal sensing and actuation, this new class of soft robots is something to watch.
Spirobs opens a new world of possibilities for a world increasingly adopting automation. With the ability to mirror complex movements of the natural world in a machine and the speedy and inexpensive fabrication process, these soft robots might just be the bioinspired breakthrough we have been waiting for.
